Construction work on a £13 million primary school and nursery in Spennymoor is now underway. Esh Construction’s commercial build and civil engineering divisions will deliver the new Springmoor Grange School on the site of the former Tudhoe Grange Comprehensive School.
The school will accommodate 630 primary school pupils alongside a 52-place nursery unit for children aged two and older, replacing the existing Ox Close Primary and Oxclose Nursery Schools.
The project is being designed and funded by Durham County Council and will ensure school provision in Spennymoor keeps pace with growing demand for places.
Chris Hale, pre-construction director at Esh Construction, said: “As a local contractor, we are delighted to be working in partnership with Durham County Council on another new school project which will provide a modern and inspirational place to learn. We are committed to creating a legacy through the scheme and will endeavour to maximise the social and economic value for the local community by employing a local workforce, procuring a local supply chain and engaging within the local community.”
Councillor Ted Henderson, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “We’re delighted to be investing in this new school for Spennymoor. This is an investment in giving children the best start in life and providing modern and inspirational facilities fit for a 21st century education.”
Anna Bowden, the federation’s deputy executive headteacher, said: “The children and staff are very excited that the build of Springmoor Grange is starting today. We have worked very closely with Durham County Council to ensure that the new build is the best it can possibly be for the children of Spennymoor not only now, but for many years to come.
“The new school will enhance our current provision whilst also maintaining our already high standards, strong community ethos and wraparound care. We look forward to working closely with Esh to watch the new school grow over the forthcoming months.”
Esh Construction will work in partnership with Billinghurst George and Partners, Howarth Litchfield and Desco throughout the scheme. There will also be a focus on achieving a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’.
The new school is set to open to students in September 2024.
As a local contractor, we are delighted to be working in partnership with Durham County Council on another new school project which will provide a modern and inspirational place to learn. We are committed to creating a legacy through the scheme and will endeavour to maximise the social and economic value for the local community by employing a local workforce, procuring a local supply chain and engaging within the local community.”
